Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Are The After Effects Of Long Term Dependence On Testosterone Shots?
Question: Thank you. I am a male, 70 years old and in good health, and currently taking testosterone shots every 3 weeks, from my Internist. I like the benefits very much - for myself and sexual relations with my wife, 20 years younger, who has had a complete hysterectomy - with no plans for new babies.
However, I am concerned about the long term risks of testosterone injections (i.e. Blood Clots, Stroke, etc), in addition to my perception - that many Drs. think the risks are unsafe, and too high for Testosterone shots.
So, can you comments on the relative benefits/ risks of "Clomid", or other "alternatives - to Testosterone shots". Another Dr friend, has just recommended "Clomid" over "Testosterone", and I appreciate you advice in choosing the best option.
Thank you, XXXXXXX
However, I am concerned about the long term risks of testosterone injections (i.e. Blood Clots, Stroke, etc), in addition to my perception - that many Drs. think the risks are unsafe, and too high for Testosterone shots.
So, can you comments on the relative benefits/ risks of "Clomid", or other "alternatives - to Testosterone shots". Another Dr friend, has just recommended "Clomid" over "Testosterone", and I appreciate you advice in choosing the best option.
Thank you, XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Clomiphene is generally used in young patients .
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for your query ,based on the facts that you have posted it appears that you have been taking Testosterone shots for low testosterone level and worried about the side effects due to long term use .
I shall be happy if you can post me few more details to help me in making comments on your problem.
1) What are your serum Testosterone levels ?
As the age advances there is a natural decrease in production of Testosterone by testicles 1% every year of age .The main function of the Testosterone is to maintain sexual desire (Libido)and general well being of a human and production of sperms,muscle mass etc.
Though there are side effects of exogenous Testosterone the incidences of these side effects is very low if you compare the efficacy of the exogenous testosterone .
The Chlomophene is generally prescribed in female to stimulate ovulation and is not recomonded by WHO to be used in men .
It is generally prescribed in men off label with infertility and low sperm count.
I would advice to continue taking Testosterone shots with monitoring your testosterone levels in blood at frequent interval .
Hope I have answered your query ,please feel free to ask if you have more questions , I shall be happy to help you .
Thanks and Regards.
Dr.Patil.
.
Clomiphene is generally used in young patients .
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for your query ,based on the facts that you have posted it appears that you have been taking Testosterone shots for low testosterone level and worried about the side effects due to long term use .
I shall be happy if you can post me few more details to help me in making comments on your problem.
1) What are your serum Testosterone levels ?
As the age advances there is a natural decrease in production of Testosterone by testicles 1% every year of age .The main function of the Testosterone is to maintain sexual desire (Libido)and general well being of a human and production of sperms,muscle mass etc.
Though there are side effects of exogenous Testosterone the incidences of these side effects is very low if you compare the efficacy of the exogenous testosterone .
The Chlomophene is generally prescribed in female to stimulate ovulation and is not recomonded by WHO to be used in men .
It is generally prescribed in men off label with infertility and low sperm count.
I would advice to continue taking Testosterone shots with monitoring your testosterone levels in blood at frequent interval .
Hope I have answered your query ,please feel free to ask if you have more questions , I shall be happy to help you .
Thanks and Regards.
Dr.Patil.
.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Dr XXXXXXX
Thank you for your advice. My followup response is that:
- My Internist does monitor my testosterone, quarterly and has similar experience to what you have recommended. If my testosterone level is substandard, then he would withdraw an amount of blood- to get back to a good level. The reason for my questions are because a 2nd Dr. felt that Clomid was a much better Benefit to Risk, and I wanted a 3rd opinion, from you.
- Do you know of any better method for me to maintain my Libido and well being, other than Testosterone shots (i.e possible less risky with same benefits) ?
Thank you in advance for your advice ! XXXXXXX Nauman
Thank you for your advice. My followup response is that:
- My Internist does monitor my testosterone, quarterly and has similar experience to what you have recommended. If my testosterone level is substandard, then he would withdraw an amount of blood- to get back to a good level. The reason for my questions are because a 2nd Dr. felt that Clomid was a much better Benefit to Risk, and I wanted a 3rd opinion, from you.
- Do you know of any better method for me to maintain my Libido and well being, other than Testosterone shots (i.e possible less risky with same benefits) ?
Thank you in advance for your advice ! XXXXXXX Nauman
Brief Answer:
here is no substitute to Testosterone to maintain Libido
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for follow up .
Testosterone is the only hormone that governs sexual desire (Libido) and it is natural and normal for it to get reduced with advancing age due to fall in production of testosterone .
If you do not get hard erection even after taking Viagra or Cialis the only option is to take Intra Cavernosal Injection of either Trimix or Caverjet .This will help to achieve hard erection to have enjoyable sex .
You need to consult qualified Urologist for guidance to decide about dose and to learn how to take it yourself .
Thanks and Regards.
Dr.Patil.
here is no substitute to Testosterone to maintain Libido
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for follow up .
Testosterone is the only hormone that governs sexual desire (Libido) and it is natural and normal for it to get reduced with advancing age due to fall in production of testosterone .
If you do not get hard erection even after taking Viagra or Cialis the only option is to take Intra Cavernosal Injection of either Trimix or Caverjet .This will help to achieve hard erection to have enjoyable sex .
You need to consult qualified Urologist for guidance to decide about dose and to learn how to take it yourself .
Thanks and Regards.
Dr.Patil.
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
